Question

Q. Differentiate between the three parallel ranges of the Himalayas.
(i) greater/ inner Himalayas
(ii) lesser / middle Himalayas
(iii) lower / outer Himalayas​

Answer 1

Answer:

Himadri (Great or Inner Himalayas)

• It is the most continuous range.
• The northernmost range is called the Himadri.
• It consists of loftiest peaks with an average height of 6,000 metres.
• It contains all the prominent peaks.
• It remains snow covered throughout the year, resulting into the formation of glaciers and some perennial rivers.

Himachal (Lesser Himalayas)

• It lies to the south of Himadri and forms the most rugged mountain system.
• The ranges are mainly composed of highly compressed and altered rocks.
• Average height is between 3,700 to 4,500 metres.
• Some famous ranges are the Pir Panjal range, Dhaula Dhar and Mahabharat ranges.
• It has some famous valleys like Kullu, Kangra and Kashmir.
• They are known for their hill stations.
• The average width is 50 Km.

Shiwaliks (Outer Himalayas)

• This is the outermost range of the Himalayas.
• Its height varies between 900 and 1,100 metres.
• These ranges are composed of unconsolidated rock material, so these ranges are prone to earthquakes and landslides.
• These longitudinal valleys lying between lesser Himalayas and Shiwaliks are called ‘Duns’ like Dehra Dun, Kotli Dun and Patlin Dun, etc.